Mesut Özil has recently been in the news for his decision to retire from international football in 2018, citing discrimination and disrespect from the German Football Association (DFB). He has also made headlines for his philanthropic efforts, including funding life-changing surgeries for children in need.
Born on October 15, 1988, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany, Özil began his professional football career at Schalke 04 before moving on to Werder Bremen and then Real Madrid. In 2013, he joined Arsenal in the English Premier League, where he became known for his playmaking abilities and vision on the field. Özil has represented the German national team, winning the 2014 FIFA World Cup with them. Off the field, he is involved in various charitable endeavors and is a prominent figure in the football world.